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Attention those blogging about Reviews

I’ve been reading a lot of posts about leaving reviews on products, or art, books, music ecc… And, forgive me while I crucify myself. (Or is this throwing myself to the lions?) But let me just say one thing about it.

Art is highly subjective.

What is one person’s trash is another person’s treasure. One of my favorite bands is The Violet Burning. What, never heard of them? I am not surprised. They are an indie band with a small following and people willing to **** all over them. I for one am glad they make music. And I hope they continue to do so for years to come.

One might say that he/she HAD to leave that poor review in order to warn any potential consumers of all of that product’s flaws. That’s fine, however, PLEASE be honest. Make it clear that you are stating your opinion, and not the gospel truth. There is absolutely no need to personally insult the artist, or to make highly questionable claims like, “This book ruined my life!” (An actual review I read—not on my book.)

Seriously? If a book ruined your life, then you need some therapy.

Serious therapy.

Besides, it’s not like you can’t return the book and get your $ back.

So go ahead and write your review, but be sure you are using your brain cells and not your personal pallet.

15 thoughts on “Attention those blogging about Reviews”

Yup agreed. It is definitely opinion for art and all reviews should be taking as such. Art is subjective which is why getting all sorts of opinions about it is a good thing, whether good are bad, it always helps everyone. 🙂

That’s one of the bad things about everyone being able to give their opinions online. I recently read where a Washington online paper is doing away with reader comments because it’s gotten too nasty. I’ve found this true in even small town online papers. Nasty comments are everywhere.

Well said. My point (and this is only my point) is if you (the reviewer) hate the book stop reading it. You have no obligation to save others from hating it as well. (the metaphor to follow is totally mine) Life is too short to keep eating mashed yellow squash (a personal non-favorite of mine) in the face of other wonderful things to eat.